KIGALI (FIBA AfroBasket 2017) – Rwanda captain Aristide Mugabe has revealed that his side is ready for the challenge at the upcoming FIBA AfroBasket 2017 from September 8-16 in Senegal and Tunisia. 

Rwanda are drawn in Group C along with giants Tunisia, Cameroon and Guinea that will play their group stage games in Tunis. And on their first return to the continental showpiece since 2013, Mugabe believes they will be out to leave a mark.

He told FIBA.basketball that, “I think that the draw is not bad for us and we should be ready to play any team by September. We have to go there and compete. We have to show Africa that we still got it.” 

Moise Mutokambali’s side, who were handed a slot at the biennial tournament thanks to a wild card, will be looking to make a strong comeback to the big stage. 

“The first target is to go out of the group phase and proceed to the next stage and do the best we can. We always need some experience on the team because the pressure is hard and every game is like a knockout''.- Mugabe

“So we need some people to help the young players in our team to play throughout all circumstances.”

Veterans including Kenneth Gasana and Kami Kabange will come in handy in Tunisia if Rwanda are to achieve their objective. 

Mugabe admits that Tunisia is a powerhouse courtesy of their experience over the years especially when they hosted recently in 2015 but he believes that they have a chance to compete favourably.

“Cameroon is a great team but it does not have a big reputation. Guinea is a normal team and not much to say about them. But there is always surprises, you cannot seat back and relax. Depending on the preparation,” the 6ft0inche(1.83m) point guard explained.

“The first target is to go out of the group phase and proceed to the next stage and do the best we can. We always need some experience on the team because the pressure is hard and every game is like a knockout.”

Rwanda finished 10th at their last appearance at FIBA AfroBasket 2013 and will be looking to improve their performance at Africa's premier basketball competition. 

FIBA